Lakers Star’s Surprising ESPN Connection Revealed As Stephen A. Smith Offers Unexpected LeBron James Support

Who cares if LeBron James warms up without a shirt on? Some love it, some don’t—but it shouldn’t be that deep unless you’re not Isiah Thomas. Last Friday, the 40-year-old Lakers star went shirtless ahead of their win over the Rockets, which oddly triggered fury in the Hall of Famer. But just when the criticism started rolling in, LeBron found an unlikely defender—Stephen A. Smith, turning the whole debate on its head.

“I just totally 100% object to this,” said Thomas. “If I was the GM or coach, I would never let one of my players walk out on the floor looking like this. I mean, we are a professional NBA league. We ain’t summer league. We ain’t at the YMCA.”

Now, on the Stephen A. Smith show, the veteran analyst took Bron’s side for once (unbelievable!). Stating in a slight sarcasm, SAS said, “Isiah Thomas is 100% right. It’s just a bad example to use.” Smith further shut down any claims of bias, making it clear that despite any personal opinions or history with LeBron, he’ll always stay professional and fair. “I told y’all I’m going to always be fair. I’m going to do my job regardless of how we feel about each other; I’m going to do my job.” Smith surely never fails to surprise!

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But why is SAS suddenly supporting the Akron Hammer instead of taking Isiah Thomas’s side? Well, the 57-year-old analyst has his explanations for the sudden change in feelings. He clarified: “LeBron James is not the greatest example to use. Because 99% of the time, the brother epitomizes professionalism.” But most importantly, “LeBron James is usually dressed up. LeBron James carries the mantle and conducts himself with the proper level of decorum and professionalism.”

via Imago

Stephen A. Smith continued: “Media interviews, postgames, availability—stuff like that. LeBron James shows up. Big events representing the NBA brand? It’s LeBron James you lean on. So, to mention the word ‘unprofessionalism’ and him with a broad brush would be incredibly unfair.”

Smith defended LeBron by highlighting his long-standing professionalism, on and off the court. From delivering composed postgame interviews to arriving in tailored suits at major NBA events, Bron consistently set the standard. He was the face of campaigns for Nike, Beats by Dre, and AT&T, reflecting his polished brand image. Whether it was the NBA Finals media days or advocacy summits, LeBron James always showed up as a leader, not just a player. Thus, criticizing him for not having a shirt on seems a bit harsh.

Meanwhile, LA Lakers’ star Markieff Morris’s twin brother, Marcus Morris, seems to have acquired new responsibilities away from the NBA court. He’s not too far away, though; he’s on the same path as Stephen A. Smith and with ESPN itself.

Marcus Morris becomes Stephen A. Smith’s colleague at ESPNVeteran power forward Marcus Morris has been off the NBA action for a long time now. And it’s most unlikely of him to make a comeback anytime soon; there are no signs. However, given how upfront and fearless he is with his opinions. ESPN has offered him a new responsibility. On the Hoop Collective podcast, Brian Windhorst made it a point that everyone knows that he, Stephen A. Smith, and everyone at ESPN have a new colleague, Morris.

“We’ve got a new colleague here at ESPN,” Windy informed the audience. “Marcus Morris is doing some TV, and they love him at ESPN because he’s brash, he’s not afraid to say stuff, and he loves the Lakers’ chances. Boy, do they love that at ESPN.” Well, Morris has already made waves in his first few appearances on Get Up and First Take. And surely there’s more to come from him!

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So, while LeBron caught heat for skipping a shirt, he also gained a surprising ally in Stephen A. Smith. Meanwhile, Lakers’ star Markieff Morris’s twin brother, Marcus Morris, ditched the hardwood for hot takes, joining ESPN’s growing squad of bold voices. From shirtless warmups to suited-up debates, this league never runs out of twists.